Thursday, December 29, 2005
Yearly affair
This can fall under the Christ-less Christmas Part 2. Since last year, my sister and her family started the trend of having turkey and ham on Christmas Eve, and of course exchanging and unwrapping of presents. Initially, I was glad that we are meeting up, and it is a good chance to share the gospel to her and her family. After the gathering at my brother's place this year (they take turns), I can't help but say that I'm disappointed. Didn't expect it to be yet another Christ-less Christmas gathering when my brother and his wife are Christians. There was no mention of Jesus, but crude jokes and pagan talks here and there. I need to repent as well, for not trying my best to bring in the gospel in our conversations. When it's Ray and my turn to host them in the future, would we dare to correct their understanding of Christmas and proclaim the gospel to them? A test of whether we are ashamed of the gospel. Gave a copy of 2 Ways to Live to my brother and sister-in-law, and hopefully it will remind them of the gospel that has saved them and the need to pass it on to other people, especially our own family members.
Christ-less Christmas and beyond
Had a good time catching up with my predecessor in NIECF. Talked about teaching, ministry, and also her plans for theological studies. Was quite sad to hear about the problems she faces in church, reminds me of my past, but I think she is having a much harder time. With a youth pastor and leaders who are not clear about ministry, often being irresponsible in their duties, it can really get very discouraging. Week after week, the youths come to church but do not learn about the gospel, and fellowship is just meeting up and feeling comfortable with one another. Even so called bible study sessions are just studying the popular 40 days book, and not the bible. Christmas event in church was just a series of performances put up by people of different ages. My dear sister simply felt a sense of shame just sitting down there, sad that the people who came do not even get to hear the gospel being preached. Looking at her, I'm just amazed at her perseverance, being able to endure for so long, and fighting silently. Was encouraged to hear that she has been buying materials from Matthias Media, and at least some people are being built up in the midst. Though it has been heavy on her finances, she is indeed an example of someone who uses her singleness effectively for God and His people. Fighting slowly and patiently behind the scene, that's the way she has been serving for the past many years. Am thankful to God that she doesn't lose heart, but in fact grew even stronger in the years as she continues to run the race, and fight the fight in guarding and passing on the gospel in her church.
December Updates
The Dec break is ending soon, but it has been a busy and fun one thus far. Thought I'll just do a quick summary of what I went through. Had the chance try new things, explore some places, building relationships with others. For example, being a bridesmaid, went for prison carolling, translated the gospel message into chinese, spent time with fellow BTPC people at the Lower Pierce Reservoir, checked out Jazz@Southbridge, etc. Yes, and more ultimate frisbee sessions during the Youth chalet. Was tiring playing on the beach but really fun. Attended two weddings as well. :) Got to spend more time with Ray and his family too, getting to know them better during his brother's wedding. Although his cousins are almost twice our age, it was easy talking to them. Had my own family gathering on Christmas Eve, which I will share a bit more in my next post. In between these events, am currently studying 1 Thessalonians with Ray, and listening to past talks on Revelation and Malachi. Have almost accomplished my To Do List for this break, especially in meeting up with some friends. Aiming to finish reading D.A. Carson's 'The Cross and Christian Ministry' which I borrowed from Pastor Andrew last CNY, before I get real busy with Practicum in Feb. Not very nice of me to hog it for so long. ;p
Thursday, December 22, 2005
Take a peep ^^
Hi hi..Know that I've not been blogging for a while. I'm working on the draft now. Before I post that up, let me share with you a link :)
http://giraffeandmouse.blogspot.com/
http://giraffeandmouse.blogspot.com/
